What does Psalm 149:9 mean?

Israel's original commands when entering Canaan were to eliminate that corrupted and wicked culture (Deuteronomy 7:1–5; 9:4–5). This was to be God's judgment on sin and evil. Unfortunately, Israel failed to follow through on these orders. By the time Jerusalem and Zion were associated with Israel (2 Samuel 5:7), opportunity to com-plete the task was all but gone. Later generations fell further and further from God, despite warnings (2 Chronicles 36:15–16). This resulted in harsh judgment on Israel (2 Chronicles 36:17–21) as predicted. The call here seems more about anticipating Messiah's future victory (Psalm 45:3–6) than a literal battle cry.

The world outside of Israel is being given similar warnings. Psalm 2 predicts an end-times uprising of the nations against God and His Son. This will result in divine wrath (Psalm 2:5–9). Second Thessalonians 1:7–8 predicts that Jesus will return to earth "with His mighty angels in flaming fire," and He will inflict "vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the punishment of eternal de-struction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might." Revelation 19:11–16 pictures this event.

This psalm equates predicted judgment on evil with honor for those who revere God (Psalm 149:4; Proverbs 1:7). One day, evil will be defeated forever: a day of vindication for all who believe (Revelation 20:11–15). In the meantime, the Lord's people are called to praise, leaving vengeance in His hands (Romans 12:19; John 18:36) and anticipating His return (Matthew 24:44).